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Arm Prostheses

Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis

Prosthetic hand solutions that, in partial or complete loss of hand function, aim to help hold objects and make daily tasks easier by supporting the opposite hand.

Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis: User stabilizing a toothbrush with a passive assistive hand

What is a passive (assistive) hand prosthesis?

A passive hand prosthesis is a type of prosthetic hand that does not actively produce finger or hand movement through electronics or body power, but instead helps hold objects by offering a fixed or manually adjustable grip position. Its main purpose is to make tasks in which both hands are used together easier by supporting the opposite hand.

These prostheses are generally characterized by their light weight and simple use. Which solution is appropriate is assessed by the specialist physician and team, taking into account the person's limb level, daily needs and expectations.

The support it aims to provide in daily life

The headings below introduce the general functions of this product group; the contribution of each function to the person is assessed individually.

Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis: Washing a passive assistive hand under the tap

Use compatible with water contact

Models with a suitable structure may be designed to be compatible with use in everyday wet-environment tasks; conditions of use are assessed according to the information provided by the practitioner.

Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis: Applying toothpaste to a toothbrush held in a passive assistive hand

Holding objects steady

The adjustable grip position aims to help hold an object steady and work together with the opposite hand.

Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis: User with a visible arm residual limb holding a passive assistive hand at the sink

Support for everyday tasks

It can be used to provide a supporting grip in two-handed tasks in the kitchen, at home and at work.

Putting it on and taking it off

The passive hand prosthesis is placed on the arm with an individually made socket and retention structure. The steps for putting it on and taking it off are demonstrated during the fitting and taught to the person in a way that fits their daily routine.

For comfortable and safe use of the device, the fit is checked in the early period and adjusted when necessary.

  • Placing and positioning the socket on the arm
  • Checking retention and assessing comfort
  • Steps for removal and care after use
Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis: Six photos showing how to put on a passive assistive hand

Examples of use

The images below give a general introduction to how the device may provide support in daily tasks.

Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis: Inserting a thin rod into a passive assistive hand

Grasping a thin object

Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis: Placing a razor into a passive assistive hand

Grip from the side

Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis: Adjusting the position of a razor in a passive assistive hand

Close-up of the grip

Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis: Close-up of a passive assistive hand holding a razor

Steady grip

Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis: Removed passive assistive hand on the edge of a sink

Between uses

Who may it be suitable for?

A passive hand prosthesis may be an option for people looking for a simple and lightweight solution who need a grip to support the opposite hand in daily life. Suitability is assessed individually by the specialist physician and team, taking into account the limb level, skin and tissue condition, daily activities and personal expectations.

The choice is made by assessing it together with other types of prostheses according to the person's needs.

Passive (assistive) hand prosthesis: User with a visible arm residual limb holding a passive assistive hand at the sink

Frequently asked questions

Does a passive hand prosthesis move its fingers by itself?

No. A passive hand prosthesis does not actively produce finger movement; the grip position is usually fixed or adjusted by hand. For situations requiring active grasping, different types of prostheses may be considered.

Which tasks in daily life does it help with?

In tasks where both hands are used together, it aims to help hold objects steady by supporting the opposite hand. The support it provides varies according to the person and the use.

How often are check-ups needed?

Check-ups are recommended at regular intervals and whenever a change in fit, function or comfort is noticed. The frequency of check-ups is determined according to the information provided by the practitioner.

Assessing the appropriate solution together

The choice of a prosthetic hand is individual and is determined through a specialist physician's assessment. You can contact us for information.

Contact

This content is for informational purposes; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Applications are carried out at our licensed center locations in line with a specialist physician's prescription/medical report.